Maryland Driver Education

The state of Maryland recognizes the need for driver's education for inexperienced drivers. Many of these teenage drivers lack the experience and dependability needed to make positive decisions where driving is concerned, due to peer pressure, road conditions, or inclement weather. While most states have in place similar laws regarding the necessity of driver's education, many more should also adopt similar laws. Additionally, teens should be required to pass courses that show the dangers of drinking and driving and driving under the influence of drugs.

You must be at least 15 years and 9 months before you can receive your learner's permit. Maryland uses the graduated licensing program, and this first step of obtaining a learner's permit is often the most difficult. Before you can make the next step, you must complete a state approved driver's education course. This includes 30 hours of classroom training and at least six of behind-the-wheel instruction. This is in addition to the 60 hours of driving time that a parent or legal guardian must help you log, completing at least 10 at night.

Your front seat passenger must be a licensed adult with at least three years of driving experience. They need to be at least 21 years old. It is against the law to talk on a cell phone while driving if you are under the age of 21, so push the "end" button while you are driving and practice safe driving habits from the start.

A learner's permit allows a new driver to begin the learning process of operating a motor vehicle.

Requirements

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Minimum age for applicants is 15 years and 9 months.
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If under 16, you must provide a completed Learner's Permit School Attendance Certification form to an MVA official during the learner's permit application process. Home schooled applicants must obtain certification from the home school coordinator for the applicant's jurisdiction.
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A parent or guardian must co-sign the learner's permit application if the applicant is under 18.
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All applicants are required to submit sources of proof of age, identity, and Maryland residence.
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Applicants must pass all required tests.
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While driving, learner's permit holders must be accompanied by a qualified supervising driver who is 21 years or older, and has held a license for a minimum of 3 years. The person must be seated beside the new driver at all times, with no other front seat occupants.
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A qualified supervising driver (parent, guardian, or mentor) must complete a Practice Skills Log for the learner's permit holder, which is issued by the MVA along with every learner's permit.
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Learner's permits are valid for 1 year from the date they are issued.
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Learner's permit holders under 18 are prohibited from using a wireless communication device (including a cell phone) while operating a motor vehicle, except to make an emergency 911 call. Violations may result in a suspension of your driving privilege. For more information on this law...
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Learner's permit holders must hold the learner's permit for a minimum of six months, maintain a conviction-free driving record during this time period, and complete a standardized driver education course before becoming eligible for a provisional license.

Parents Please Note

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If a new driver under 18 is cited for speeding in excess of 20 mph, the MVA will notify the parent, guardian, or cosigner.
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Drivers under 18 may have their license suspended if the parent, guardian, or cosigner withdraw their consent. Contact the MVA for details.